MASTERHAND designer Peter Behnen answers questions from Marina Litterscheidt – editor-in-chief of HOCHZEIT magazine:

1. What is the trend look for the groom in 2009? (in terms of style and charisma, perhaps you can also say something about the accessories)

Casual elegance. Discrete chic is created with a blend of extravagance and tradition. Accessories in linen and silk are playing a big role this season and show off this new casualness without being too informal. Narrow, pure silk ties with innovative details like AMF stitching or edged piping in contrast change the whole look. The summery silk and linen scarves are more causal.

2. Black or coloured – what do you think is more elegant?

The new key attractions of the season include fabrics with slight shine effects. This semi-shine style looks especially effective with dark fabrics in black, chestnut or cappuccino. If you’re the slightest bit unsure, you can’t go wrong with black! Black suit always looks masculine and elegant at the same time.

3. Short or long – what type of jacket will grooms be wearing in 2009?

This season the groom will be wearing cool cuts with clear lines. Shorter jackets with a back length of 77 cm and the matching flat front trousers. These slim-fitting tailored suits underline the masculine silhouette of the groom, without having to forgo comfort.

4. Plain, stripes or patterned – what is your favourite fabric design for 2009?

Extremely different trends define the overall look of the new outfits. Simplicity and getting back to basics define the new look. Subdued fabrics with shaded and relief stripes show off elaborate silhouettes in a striking way.

5. Can a wedding suit also be experimental?

Of course a wedding suit can be experimental. The motto is: Feel free, be different. A look which is as cool, uncompromising as in the 80s, with a zest for life. Summery fabric types have a silky shimmer and with matt/shine effects and changeants give the classics a modern look. Metal fibres and silk-linen mixes, some with a crinkle look, liven up formal wear. Peaked lapels give the narrow-fitting one-button jackets an eveningwear touch. Sexy Latino suits with an unbuttoned shirt also make the man the centre of attention.

6. What actually makes a suit a wedding outfit?

Clear aesthetics, urban chic, figure-hugging tailoring, subtle details and a certain lightness characterise looks, which are elegant, timeless and contemporary at the same time. Modernity with the right dose of tradition paired with a personal touch turn a suit into a special and elegant outfit.